Run a Virtual Implementation of a Pre Installed OS?
Sorry if this has been asked before but is there a free ware that allows you to run a virtual implementation of a currently installed OS. I am running vista and ubuntu and I would rather use ubuntu but there is software I need to run in windows and wine does not support them. I am even willing to (but don’t want to if I don’t have to) virtualize ubuntu instead but I really need both systems running at the same time. thx
Tagged with: free ware • ubuntu • virtual implementation • wine
Filed under: All Things Wine
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First of all, congratulations on using a Linux OS.
Now, for your question: It depends on what you mean by "preinstalled." There is currently no way to virtualize an operating system that is installed onto your hard drive. That is, you can not boot into Ubuntu and then run your Windows Vista (with all your installed software, etc) within it.
However, there is a great program out there called VirtualBox that will allow you to install Vista and run it within Ubuntu. This would be a fresh install, however… so it would make your dual-boot version of Vista unused.
I hope this was clear enough… it is hard to put it into words.
You can use VMware vCenter Converter(http://www.vmware.com/products/converter/) to make an image of your pre installed OS and then load it through VMware Player(http://www.vmware.com/products/player/), although Windows will detect a sudden change in "hardware" and will ask for your key. Both products are free and really easy to use, just make sure you have enough hard drive space left, it will be temporarily be double of your Windows.
Edit: the dude that was before me is incorrect, there is a way, this way :D.